I got an email today from NCDC saying that Don Fiedler had passed. Don was one of my favorite people and taught me much about being a criminal defense lawyer, and a person. My kids hadn't met him, but they "recognized" him when I reminded them of the times we played improv games after Don had taught us to use them at NCDC.
The picture is of Don playing William Jennings Bryan. I couldn't find a photo of his more famous role, that of Clarence Darrow.
I don't know if I've ever met a kinder soul. I was once told that although Don gave away a scholarship to the NCDC every year, that people shouldn't take this as a sign that he could afford it. In fact, the person told me that Don would simply give away his money if asked.
I believe it.
Here's the text of the Omaha World Herald obituary:
"Donald B. Fiedler
FIEDLER-Donald B., age 65. Preceded in death by parents, Ruth and Alfred A. Fiedler. Survived by son, David Fiedler and fiancee, Angela Davis, Minneapolis, MN; granddaughter, Mackenzie Fiedler, Omaha; sister, Sandra Straus, New York NY.
Graveside Services Sunday 1pm Beth El Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, Memorials to National Criminal Defense College, c/o Mercer Law School, Macon, GA, 31207. JOHN A. GENTLEMAN MORTUARIES
72nd STREET CHAPEL
1010 North 72nd St., 391-1664"
3 comments:
I am a defense attorney in Breckenridge, CO. I went to NCDC in June, 06. I was just telling a friend about Don's one man Clarence Darrow show the other day. He will never missed. He left his mark on so many of us.
I'm Rosie from NCDC. We here are all devastated by our loss. Thank you for the beautiful post, and thank you for posting the obituary. I hope you don't mind, I'm going to copy it and post it on our website.
Thanks for the comments. I remember you, Rosie and would be honored if you copied anything to the website. I'll go to the funeral tomorrow and write about it for people who can't get here.
J.B.- Wherever and whenever I go to a conference related to criminal defense work, I'm always asked if I know Don and amazed at how many people knew him. I was never surprised, however, at all the great things they had to say.
Thanks again for the comments.
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